Etymology[edit]

The term "thesis" comes from the Greek θέσις, meaning

"something put forth", and refers to an
intellectual proposition. "Dissertation" comes from
the Latin dissertātiō, meaning "discussion". Aristotle was the
first philosopher to define the term thesis.
"A 'thesis' is a supposition of some eminent philosopher that
conflicts with the general opinion...for to take notice when
any ordinary person expresses views contrary to men's usual
opinions would be silly".[5]
For Aristotle, a thesis would therefore be a supposition that is
stated in contradiction with general opinion or express
disagreement with other philosophers (104b33-35). A
supposition is a statement or opinion that may or may not be
true depending on the evidence and/or proof that is offered
(152b32). The purpose of the dissertation is thus to outline the
proofs of why the author disagrees with other philosophers or
the general opinion.